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Philadelphia, PA – The PA/NJ/DE Chapter of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) presented architecture firm Francis Cauffman with its Best Interior Design Award of 2012 for the new headquarters of law firm Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP in Wilmington, DE. This is the second consecutive year Francis Cauffman has won this award. The architecture firm also received an Honorable Mention for Organization of Interior Space for the USM, Inc’s headquarters.

Best Interior Design of 2012: Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLC

Richard A. Levine, a partner at Young Conaway said, “We are very pleased with the results of this project for its seamless melding of modern technology and historic character. The building itself has great sense of nostalgia for many of our attorneys who actually began their legal careers within these walls. Francis Cauffman’s design honors the original features that many remember while creating a contemporary look and functionality that meet our needs.”

“This award is a testament of a client’s appreciation in the value of design. Our expertise in law planning and design led us to meet the challenge of integrating the changing needs of the law profession within a building from the previous century. It’s a honor to be recognized for this work,” stated Anthony Colciaghi, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, BD+C, Principal at Francis Cauffman.

Francis Cauffman created a design that harmonized the old and the new. They refurbished natural stone and restored the central bronze stairwell in the two-story entrances. The design team created flexible conference rooms and collaborative spaces on the first two floors. The offices on the third and fourth floors are bright and airy, with large windows, and sleek nickel and stainless steel finishes.

Honorable Mention in Organization of Interior Space: USM, Inc.

Francis Cauffman also received an Honorable Mention for USM’s headquarters in a former Sears department store. The design consolidated several different departments under one roof while promoting interaction between them. The large floor space is divided with wooden frames to create informal team areas. Enclosed conference rooms have glass walls to let in natural light and promote openness and transparency. A large “town center” functions as a dining area and a casual meeting place.